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UW-Platteville halts men’s cross-country activities during hazing inquiry

UW-Platteville has suspended its men’s cross-country season while the Universities of Wisconsin investigates allegations of hazing and student-athlete conduct violations. The team’s coach was placed on paid administrative leave as of Sept. 4.

UW-Platteville halts men’s cross-country activities during hazing inquiry
PLATTEVILLE, Wis. — UW-Platteville has suspended all men’s cross-country activities while officials investigate allegations of hazing and other student-athlete conduct violations. Chancellor Tammy Evetovich received an initial report of the allegations Sept. 1 and was briefed the following day, according to the university. After requesting additional information, she received it Sept. 3. Evetovich suspended team activities Sept. 4 and placed men’s cross-country coach James Akita on paid administrative leave. The investigation is being conducted by the Universities of Wisconsin Administration Office of Compliance and Integrity. The university has not disclosed the nature of the alleged conduct or identified any students involved. “Our priority is to support students involved while ensuring this matter is investigated as thoroughly, fairly and promptly as possible,” university spokesperson Melanie Platt-Gibson said. UW-Platteville said it is providing support and counseling resources to students involved. Officials also said they are protecting student privacy, following applicable policies and laws, and cooperating with the review process. The university said it would not provide additional details while the investigation remains ongoing.

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